Web of life

If we think about which trees or plants to choose for, we should pay attention to how they contribute to biodiversity. Biodiversity stands for the number of different species, as well as the variety (e.g., age, subtype) within a species on a certain area. Biodiversity is often used as a criterion to measure the health of a biological system. The more biodiverse an area is, the stronger and healthier the ecosystem. Biodiversity makes an area stable and healthy, affects the health of the planet and therefore has a direct impact on our lives.

Unfortunately, due to human activities that threaten biodiversity, we are facing a biodiversity crisis. Many species have gone extinct (lost their last living individuals), and many species exist in such low numbers that they will likely not survive a hit by a health threat or natural disaster. As all life on the planet is connected in the web of life, biodiversity crisis includes humans as well, even if the human species is not threatened by extinction now.

Though biodiversity is threatened, in many cities in the world biodiversity in the city is being promoted. Many different plants, trees and shrubs in the city will stimulate biodiversity. The more variation in vegetation, the more variation it will attract in the animal life. A wide range of pollinating insects and many different plants will be a food source for birds and other animals. Protecting biodiversity starts with knowing the diversity of species that are living among us.

Ecosystem services of a tree

How trees make our cities livable

Water cycle in the city

Native and non native species

Mature trees in the city

Air quality in a green city

Dr Forest at your service

Colours of the forest

Look into the future food forests